Cedar Key clams are the best

The Best of Cedar Key!

We're prejudiced - we have a strong list of Cedar Key favorites. One of our goals in having a vacation rental condo was to be able to go on a Cedar Key vacation with a minimal amount of fuss - we have the grocery list already figured out, know what we need to pack, and know where to go for whatever. We do try new things each time we visit, but having our list of favorites makes a huge difference in getting into "island time". The fewer decisions we have to make, the faster we're on vacation! Here's our list of Favorites that we share with guests in Tranquility.

Beer selection: Unfortunately, most of the restaurants now have a dismal beer selection. Island Room at Cedar Cove is your best bet - but that's pushing it... If you're serious about interesting beer (and we are) stop at ABC Liquors in Gainesville and bring your own out to Cedar Key. The Cedar Key Market's selection has improved in the last few years, but still carry mostly standard American megabrews.
Cedar Key Birding - local: Tranquility's balcony or along the shore at Old Fenimore Mill are great birding spots for guests. However, good birding is also available along the causeway to the island and along the many marsh-bounded roadways. Bring your binocs and watch the mudflats at low tide for herons, egrets, storks, osprey and more!
Cedar Key Birding - by boat: Seahorse Key - a part of the Cedar Keys Wildlife Refuge. Rent a boat or take a ride via the Island Hopper or Lady Pirate (boarding at the Cedar Key Town Marina). Seahorse Key has a 300 foot buffer zone closed to visitors from March 1 to June 30 to protect the birds during nesting season. (Good binoculars will help you see some from outside the buffer zone.) In July you can still see many nests and young birds.
Cedar Key Kayaks: Last seen at Island Hopper - Mangrove Outfitters had terrific kayaks, great information, the latest technology, and folks who were insured and invested in helping you have a great experience renting a kayak and paddling Cedar Key!
Cedar Key Fishing - Inshore: Old Fenimore Mill's dock is an easy choice for residents and guests - (but this is a private dock for the complex guests only). Or charter Captain Dan - our favorite inshore fishing guide in Cedar Key. Or try the big dock in town, where the catch is usually more varied - go at tide change, particularly when it's going out. Local guide services are available for working the "flats".
Cedar Key Fishing - Offshore: There are a number of charters available for offshore excursions out into the Gulf.
Cedar Key Sunday Brunch: The Island Room at Cedar Cove (right next door!) Try the crab benedict or the smoked trout plate for a real treat!
Cheap Breakfast: Annie's Cafe on Route 24 just outside of town - good ol' southern cooking that's tasty and reasonably priced.
Fancy Dinner Out: Well, Cedar Key really doesn't get fancy, but you can wear your dockers and sundresses... It's a toss up between The Island Room at Cedar Cove and the Island Hotel Dining Room. Either way, you'll be happy you went.
Special Stuff: Cedar Key Clams - The clams at Island Hotel are just a slight notch above the others. But part of the fun is to try them at every single restaurant...; Clam Chowder - Tony's Seafood at the corner of 2nd Street and Rt. 27 won an award for their chowder. It's a touch pricey - but oh so good....; Crab Bisque - The Island Room at Cedar Cove. Get the bowl, you will definitely want more than a cup. They do offer this carryout - been there...; Palm Salad - Available at most restaurants. It sounds weird, but it's wonderful - try it! The best is at Island Hotel Dining Room.; Smoked Mullet Dip - It's great on bagels instead of cream cheese.
Fresh Seafood to Cook: Southern Cross offers a good selection of seafood in town.
Cedar Key Sunset with Service: The deck at the Coconuts of Cedar Key on Dock St. Pull up a bench, have a beverage of choice and bring the camera.
Cedar Key Sunset au naturale: If you stay in Tranquility, sunsets from the balcony (especially summer) are breathtaking - just check out our photos! Otherwise, the Lewis Airstrip is an excellent place to see the sun go down. Drive or bike over SW Airport Road and park on the road next to the runway.

Are you ready to make reservations to visit Cedar Key?

Site Map

vacation florida's nature coast | visit cedar key